China Travel Survival Guide
The stuff nobody tells you — tickets, hotels, and essential apps
TL;DR: Install Alipay, WeChat, DiDi, and a VPN before your flight. Book major attractions like the Forbidden City and Great Wall 3-7 days in advance — they sell out. Carry your own toilet paper — public restrooms in China don't provide it. Not all hotels accept foreign guests — always verify before booking. Download offline maps and a translation app as backup. Last updated: June 2026.
Attraction Tickets
Many popular attractions require online booking with a Chinese ID number. Foreigners are often locked out.
Here's how to book tickets as a foreigner:
- Use Trip.com (English interface) for major attractions
- Some attractions accept passport numbers on their English website
- Ask your hotel concierge to help book tickets
Hotel Warning
Not all hotels in China are licensed to accept foreign guests. You may be turned away at check-in.
How to find foreigner-friendly hotels:
- Filter by 'Accepts Foreign Guests' on Booking.com
- International chains (Marriott, Hilton, IHG) always accept foreigners
- Call ahead to confirm — especially for smaller hotels
Essential Apps
Life in China runs on apps. Without them, you can't order food, hail a ride, or buy train tickets.
Install these apps BEFORE arriving in China